


You can also purchase a sternum strap, usually for less than $15.

A sternum clip keeps straps from slipping, but it isn’t necessary if the backpack fits well (or the load is fairly light). Adjustable shoulder straps are also important to ensure the backpack doesn’t fall more than four inches below the waistline, which can increase the weight on the child’s shoulders. Be comfortable to wear and carry: Padded shoulder straps and padded backs can help ease heavy loads.Be made from durable, cleanable materials: The material should be water-resistant, able to withstand the rigors of daily use, and easy to wipe clean.Note: There is a women’s version of the Borealis-it’s 27 liters (versus 28 liters) and about one inch shorter than the original Borealis, and comes in different colors and prints-that we have not tested. This size fits most adults but can be noticeably too big or heavy for a still-growing tween or teen. (An unexpected bonus: There’s a whistle on the buckle of the sternum strap.) With a starting weight of about 2 pounds, it’s the heaviest and largest backpack we recommend, with two additional inches in length compared with our next-largest pick, the Pottery Barn Teen Gear-Up Backpack. A chest strap and a hip belt not only help distribute the weight of the backpack but also make it more comfortable to carry. The back of the backpack is padded, ergonomically contoured, and lined with mesh. The material (a combination of ripstop nylon, 600-denier polyester, and 500-denier nylon) feels solid and durable, and we appreciate the overall craftsmanship, which includes reinforced stitching, a reflective strip on the shoulder straps, and handy zipper pulls. Whether you’re looking for an affordable classic that will last for years, a fun backpack that comes in multiple sizes and tons of designs (including a rolling option), a larger backpack with laptop storage for older students, or an artsy, super-organized backpack for all ages, these packs earn top marks from kids and parents alike.įor tweens and teens who are close to adult size and are looking for a more grown-up backpack, the 28-liter North Face Borealis is a durable and versatile backpack that we began testing recently. The backpacks we recommend suit a range of ages (from preschool through middle school), have been thoroughly evaluated for comfort and durability, and feature smart organization and high-quality construction.

Since 2015, we’ve tested nearly 30 popular backpacks for kids, in some cases sending them to school with our own kids year after year. And since kids will carry a backpack every day for a school year (or beyond), it should be durable and come in enough colors and designs to let kids express their sense of style. It should also be appropriately sized for smaller bodies and comfortable to lug around. A great school backpack for kids should be able to corral all the stuff they need for the school day.
